ORNL researcher Zackary Snow compares data from different types of images collected during and after metal parts were additively manufactured using a powder bed printer like the one behind him. Credit: Carlos Jones/ORNL, U.S. Dept. of Energy
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Inspection method increases confidence in laser powder bed fusion 3D printing
The OpeN-AM experimental platform, installed at the VULCAN instrument at ORNL’s Spallation Neutron Source, features a robotic arm that prints layers of molten metal to create complex shapes. This allows scientists to study 3D printed welds microscopically. Credit: Jill Hemman, ORNL/U.S. Dept. of Energy
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Neutrons see stress in 3D-printed parts, advancing additive manufacturing
ORNL’s additive manufacturing compression molding, or AMCM, technology can produce composite-based, lightweight finished parts for airplanes, drones or vehicles in minutes and could acclerate decarbonization for the automobile and aeropsace industries. 
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Speedy composite manufacturing

Manufacturing Demonstration Facility

Revitalizing US Manufacturing 

The Manufacturing Demonstration Facility (MDF), established in 2012, is one of the Department of Energy’s designated user facilities focused on performing early-stage research and development to improve the energy and material efficiency, productivity, and competitiveness of American manufacturers. Research focuses on manufacturing analysis and simulation, composites and polymer systems, metal powder systems, metrology and characterization, machine tooling, large-scale metal systems, and robotics and automation.

The MDF is a 110,000 sq. ft. facility housing integrated capabilities that drive the development of new materials, software, and systems for advanced manufacturing. From binder jetting to 3D tomography to in situ monitoring, the MDF leverages a range of equipment and expertise focused on reducing the carbon footprint of the manufacturing sector, efficiently utilizing abundant and available domestic energy resources, and supporting the production of clean energy products that boost the nation’s economy.

Across its energy science and technology user facilities, ORNL delivers breakthroughs from generation to distribution and storage to end use, accelerating America’s transformation to a clean, efficient, flexible, and secure energy future.

MDF floor plan

Contact

Ryan R Dehoff
Director, Manufacturing Demonstration Facility
dehoffrr@ornl.gov
Dr. Ryan Dehoff

Focus Areas

Materials

Developing metallic alloys and polymers designed for additive manufacturing, creating hybrid materials, and understanding the role of feedstocks.

Software & Metrology

Implementing physics-based simulations, 3D tomography, machine learning, data analysis and deploying rapid qualification tools.

Systems

Developing pick and place hybrid systems and optimizing advanced materials.

Manufacturing History and Vision

https://youtu.be/k42GotwKTYc

https://youtu.be/zzeVo6FrGtk

https://youtu.be/ABElg-wfB4Y
MDF Stats